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The moment I start baking these Linzer cookies my kitchen fills with the most enchanting aroma of butter spices and almonds. They're my absolute favorite holiday tradition bringing that perfect blend of Austrian charm right into my home. Every time I dust them with powdered sugar and see that beautiful jam peeking through I fall in love with baking all over again.
A Cookie with History
Making these cookies feels like connecting with generations of bakers from beautiful Linz Austria. There's something so special about creating these delicate almond shortbreads knowing their recipe has brought joy for hundreds of years. The way they sparkle with powdered sugar reminds me of snowy holiday markets.
Everything You Need
- Almond Flour: That half cup gives such wonderful nutty flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: A cup and a half creates perfect texture.
- Spices: Cinnamon and cloves add such cozy warmth.
- Salt: Just a touch makes everything taste brighter.
- Egg: One large egg holds everything together beautifully.
- Butter: Use the good unsalted stuff softened just right.
- Sugar: Regular for the dough powdered for that snowy finish.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds such lovely depth.
- Jam: I love raspberry but use your favorite.
Let's Start Baking
- Making the dough:
- Mix those dry ingredients then cream your butter and sugar until fluffy. The smell when you add the spices is heavenly.
- Time to chill:
- Roll between parchment then pop in the fridge. This rest makes such a difference.
- Creating magic:
- Cut your shapes with love those little windows make them extra special.
- Into the oven:
- Watch carefully for that perfect golden edge.
- The finishing touch:
- Add your jam sandwich them together then dust with sugar pure joy.
My Best Tips
Keep that dough nice and thin it makes the prettiest cookies. Always chill between steps it's worth the extra time. Using parchment paper saves so much cleanup and makes rolling a breeze. Keep your extra dough cold while you work with small batches.
Make Them Your Own
Sometimes I play with different jams apricot is wonderful. Adding cocoa to the dough makes chocolate lovers so happy. My latest discovery was adding Earl Grey tea to the dough it's absolutely magical.
Keep Them Fresh
These beauties stay perfect for three days in an airtight container. If you need them to last longer wrap them carefully and freeze. They thaw beautifully and taste just as wonderful as fresh baked.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why chill the dough for 2 hours?
- Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to cut clean shapes and maintain their form during baking. It also prevents spreading and helps achieve crisp edges.
- → Why heat the jam before spreading?
- Warming the jam makes it more spreadable and helps prevent breaking the delicate cookies. The added water or rum thins it slightly for easier application.
- → Can I use different fillings?
- While raspberry is traditional, you can use other jams like apricot or blackberry. The filling should be smooth and not too chunky for best results.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Yes, the unfilled cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Fill them just before serving to keep them crisp.
- → What can I do with the cutout centers?
- The small cutouts can be baked separately and enjoyed as mini cookies. Dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet treat.